29 February 2008

When I chose that name for this blog almost 15 months ago, I hadn't the slightest idea just how meaningful a mantra it would become for so many women.

Or for myself.

I started ASJiNE for two primary reasons, the first of which was to raise awareness among women, most notably those in the overachieving professional crowd, that placing daily priority on putting together a smart, figure flattering, venue appropriate look was a critical component in achieving their professional goals.

Not more critical than the graduate degree, not as critical as the gets-along-with-the-guys quick wit, but still, critical.

The second reason was a selfish one - to build up a body of writing in an area in which I had enormous passion but absolutely no rightful claim, no pedigree, no legitimacy; my writing here would serve as my entry into an industry everyone in my life knows is the one in which I was meant to make my most meaningful professional mark.

Over the past few weeks, I've grown increasingly sure that my value-added on the first front has run its course. As I wrote in a recent post, I can only write so many scathing reviews of block heels, French manicures (and pedicures) and be-tanktopped chunky upper-arms before my "shtick" becomes predictable and my persuasiveness loses its punch.

And on the second front, well, there are some big changes a comin' in your Editrix's life, and these are changes that will require a good deal more of her time than her current blogging schedule allows.

So this is a bit awkward and more than a bit unexpected, but I think today, a day we see only once every four years, is the perfect time for me to cap the lip balm on this venture and bid all of you adieu.

Thank you to everyone who read, commented, e-mailed, and especially to those whose public personal attacks taught me the difference between hateful words that matter and hateful words best used for e-mail fodder among girlfriends.

I'll miss this. I really will.best,Johanna

p.s. one more thing, the consignment event will definitely still move forward but under the sole guidance of the lovely Maria -- please check out her blog, Righteous (re)Style, for any and all updates pertaining thereto.

364 comments:

What??? The post is labeled "time off", that does that mean that you'll come back at some point? post less frequently? Tell us a bit about these exciting changes?Whatever it is, I will miss you. Thank you for this blog that has become a part of my daily routine, and also helped me find my footing again style-wise (long story, but just take my word for it, you have done some good).big hug (though I don't know you) and good luck,n.

Wow! Congrats on your new venture! I really do hope that you tell us more about it down the road...or maybe we'll just be catching your name in a fashion mag and have to figure it out for ourselves.

ASJiNE has been a part of my morning-afternoon and sometimes evening routine for over a year now. I'm so glad I found it.

I really do think it had a positive effect on my life (for where I am now, early twenties, just starting to build that real-world experience in DC). I never thought I'd be as interested in all of this "stuff" as I am now, and it really has changed my mindset on a lot of things that I thought were "above me" or out of my reach.

You've helped me change my attitude on how I walk down the street and how I see myself...it really is all about confidence.

Thank you but I don't know what I'll do without you!Sarah aka ataraxia

You are one of my favorite blogs, and for whatever it's worth, I have been called "stylish" by a friend just yesterday, and also had comments that I have the best shoes, but coworkers -- me, flip-flop loving, barely no make up face, hate wearing heels self. That is, until I start reading your blogs, and now rarely go out without at least 3" heels, a put together face and I got style! (Not the I was clueless before, mind you, I just had my NYC mindset of "who gives a f-?" -- well now I do!).

Oh, yeah, and let's not forget my now ALWAYS moisturized skin and compliments on how soft it is (before I only use to moisturize it when I knew someone would be touching it!)

Please reconsider and come back, even if you don't post everyday.

You'll be missed!!! You witty writing is always entertaining even if you start repeating yourself -- no worries.

NOOOOOOOOO! Please don't go! I know it's selfish of me, but I want you to continue blogging forever! It has been you who made me realize that my khakis and ugly flats send a message about myself - and not one I liked. I've started dressing MUCH better (think more heels, better necklines, and tights, even!) thanks to you. I'm with Ataraxia - I check your blog morning, noon, and night! I'm devastated and miserable. At least tell us where you're going next - so we can keep an eye out for you? Sigh.

Thanks backatcha, Johanna. I'm gonna miss If I Had a Sugar Daddy (one of the favorite parts of my day) ... Good luck with your future endeavors. I hope to read your column in Vogue or watch your series on the Style Network or E! one day.

My day is going to be a little darker now - I loved your blog and read it every morning with my first cup of coffee before bending over to the a**hats I work for. I'll miss this! Thanks for all you've done, Johanna.

NOOOO! This happens with every good blog, so I knew it was only a matter of time before you gave up, too. Don't you want to challenge yourself to push your writing and creativity to a higher level by continuing the blog?! I can only hope you come back on occasion. Let us know what you are doing in the future...

Allow me to take this opportunity to not only congratulate Johanna, but also to remind all those readers who click over to say, other blogs on her "Inspiring Irreverence" list at right, (nervous laughter) that there's nothing quite like the effectiveness of bookmarking.

Bookmarking—it's the new black!

Because those other blogs she recommends over there under "Inspiring Irreverence" certainly would hate it if the ASJiNE readers who account for a hefty chunk of their incoming link traffic lost their way. (more nervous laughter and furiously darting eyes).

I too am devestated, J. For over a year now, I have read your blog with my first cup of morning coffee. You have impacted my life in a way that has made me more stylish, more confident and more aware of my surroundings. Although I don't always step out of my house looking as stylish as I would like, I at least care now and know when I have totally f-ed up an outfit with boring flats or blah makeup or whatever. You encouraged me to wear higher heels to work, to cut my hair into an actual STYLE, to look for more interesting necklines, to aim for style on even the coldest, dreariest days. I will miss you as will many other blog-readers. The selfish side of me hopes that you will reconsider leaving us. The other side of me wishes you the best of success in whatever endeavor you're about to take on. Also, as an aspiring writer myself, your awesome style of writing has inspired me as well. I know that you will go far. Good luck!

I realise my comment is probably redundant at this point, after all it will simply echo the others made so far. But I'm going to add it anyway, because you should know just how many people read this blog and have taken your advice to heart. It might not change your mind - though I hope it will! - but you should know anyway.

I literally never, ever wore heels before reading your blog. Even dating a much taller guy didn't give me the push I needed to start. Your blog did. Your writing also played a major role in convincing me to wear skirts and dresses and to start experimenting with make-up.

Wow, I'm really sad to see you go. You've become the first thing I check online every morning (after work email, obv.). Some other commenters have asked if you could suggest some other dc fashion blogs for us to get our "fix" and I second that request. Thanks, and once again, sorry to see you go!

Holy butterballs, Batman! Wait just a minute. This is Leap Day, not April Fool's Day. Please tell me this incredibly classy farewell is a cruel joke. Monte is just trying to hog you to himself, yes? No? Darn. :(

Best of luck on what I'm sure is an exciting new step in your life. You've made your mark here and we are all excited to watch your star rise. Consider your career in fashion as "one to watch."

You should have included the youbute clip "Don't forget to remember me" by Carrie Underwood. I am currently listening to it. I feel like the momma who says, "Don't go!" but the reality is the girl has to go and chase her dreams. Here is the clip for the other sentimental saps out there:

youtube.com/watch?v=KVoSbRMskic

Yes, life really is like a Carrie Underwood song sometimes. Johanna, just don't forget to remember me!

Johanna, your writing and taste have made your blog the first website I check each day, even before my beloved NYtimes.com. You will be missed, but congratulations on your upcoming projects. I hope you can share with us at some point what you are up to. And thank you for your gracious and helpful response to my email several months back regarding a certain gorgeous pair of black snakeskin flats, I think of you when I receive compliments on them. Best wishes!

this is unexpected but at the same time totally understandable. as someone said earlier, your writing is too damn good to sit in a blog forever. someone had to scoop you up, or you had to move on to try and make it on your own somewhere else.

my great short haircut and my four "since I don't (yet)" purchases owe you more than you could ever know.

From an avid reader in Canada, I am disappointed and saddened that you will no longer be writing this blog. Your writing is witty, captivating and inspiring. I, like many of your readers, have enjoyed reading your blog with my first cup of morning coffee.

I will think of you while wearing my 4-inch platform heels, while training for my marathon, and while doing my bathroom squats and prison push-ups.

whether you or any of your haters want to admit it, you've made a real impression on the scene here in DC. I can't tell you how many times I've had random women recommend your blog to me - you and your message really got around, girl!

I hope whoever gets your talents in the future appreciates just how good they've got it.

I really hope you will keep the blog up, so we can read back to past entries and check back for style tips etc.Thanks again for all the work you have put into this blog.Best of luck and I'll be googling you every once in a while, to see what you're up to. Though your work here is not done, you did leave us with quite a lot to work with, and I guess the wind is changing...

OK, I’ve just returned from a Cosi run on which I encountered one chick wearing a suit, black tights, pigtail braids and grey fur Chewbacca boots, and another wearing goucho pants/heels/tights. You’ve been gone five hours and the lunatics are already running the asylum. Seriously, it's like Lord of the Flies out there.

I have never commented before but wanted to tell you that I check your blog every day! As an "overachieving working woman" in DC, I really appreciated your posts. I fell in love with fashion when I went to Paris and struggled when I came back to DC (a VERY unfashionable city)...your blog helped combine my two interests.

Thank you.... SUGGESTION: could we organize a MeetUp? (www.meetup.com) we could get together once a month and go to fashion events around town or just discuss?

Oh No... I feel like I just lost a good friend. J your writing has been inspiring in helping me change the way I view myself and others. As I am a student, I used to go to class in my pajamas! Now I realize that even as a overworked, sleep deprived student my appearance matters to those around me. Thanks for all your helpful advice and funny anecdotes. Now I just need to find another friend who motives me to spend that extra 30 min on the stairmaster and who has impecable taste in clothes...

Please keep us updated on wherever it is you're going and on whatever it is you're doing!

In addition to inspiring us to dres better, you're also an inspiration to all of us who've taken on a serious job just because that's what was expected of us. You've really made me think twice about whether I'm on the right path. I don't know if I'm as bold as you to actually *do anything* about it, but you've at least got me thinking about it.

This is the last thing I was expecting to read this morning. I've come back to your site four more times today hoping it was all a big hoax, but now I can see you're quite seriously retiring from the blogging business.

I can't say I blame you.

It's clear, as Velvet says, that this is your calling and you can't keep doing it for free in your free time. That you've done it this long is so admirable.

Your family and friends in the mid-west have enjoyed your witty, well-written posts. You have made us proud to be your roots, but as "someone" has often said, it's time for you to spread your wings and fly toward your passion. We send our best wishes & love and simply say, "Well done."

Who quits at this point? Honestly, this totally ruined my Friday buzz.

I wish you nothing but the best, but promise us you're continuing on in the fashion journalism business. I'll look for your name in all my subscriptions in the near future. You're totally good enough, it's just a matter of landing the opportunity.

I've never commented before, but I feel like I have to say thank YOU for all of the work that you put into this blog. Both your writing and fashion sense have been really inspirational. I have always appreciated good fashion, but when I started reading your blog, I had stopped taking the kind of care and concern with my appearance that I really wanted to and knew I could. ASJiNE reminded me why fashion is so important and why I loved fashion in the first place. I hope that whatever your path you walk down next in your 4 inch heels, its where you really want to be going.

long-time reader, first-time commenter...thank you for providing food for two fashion starved, dc transplant undergrads in the middle-of-nowheresville, ohio. your blog will be sorely missed as our preferred method of procrastination!

I celebrated your retirement with my first sugar daddy purchase. That gorgeous Marc dress at right. I love it and I'm going to pair it with the most beautiful 4.5 inch stacked brown patent leather mary janes. You'd sooo love.

Johanna I can't believe you are done with this blog! You are second on my blog reading list right after Dlisted (because really Michael K rocks!) but you were the one blog that I always read EVERY day. I was having drinks after work and my friend noticed the very HIGH heeled boots that I was wearing and commented it must have been a desk day, and I told her, "no I wear heels every day" and in my head though, because a serious job is no excuse to wear flats - bleh! Good luck Johanna and please post from time to time. About ANYTHING! Please!

as a dc female it was so refreshing when i stumbled upon your blog because you gave REAL advice on what to wear.

you seriously are the reason why i am so in love with detailing, pleats, unique necklines, ruffles, and i can go on and on.

i am so saddened that you are ending this blog but my best wishes to you in your future endeavors. if i ever run into you in town i will have to stop and let you in person how awesome your blog has been.

and i think you should become a stylist on the side for some extra cash. hehe ;) i would so hire you!

I've never commented before, but I wanted to let you know that I have really enjoyed reading your blog. I read your blog when I was doing my practicum and getting 4 hours of sleep each night. After a day of dealing with difficult teenagers and reading reams of scribbles your blog always made me feel better.

Because of your blog, I have made sure that I don't let all the work I have consume me. Going to work in an outfit that I know looks good on me makes the day go by better.

much misses from an avid reader in singapore - would you consider continuing this fabulous, irreplaceable blog, but perhaps, don't have to post an entry everyday, but just whenever you feel like it? congrats on your new Thing, dear Editrix!

I have tremendously enjoyed reading your writing and will miss having you be a part of my internet routine. Please let us know what you'll be doing next--your post was cryptic, cryptic!--I would love to read your writing in whatever format you'll be working in next.

As many others, I have never commented before, but will very much miss your inspiring words. From all of the above comments, it is obvious that you have made an impact on so many people, whether it be on the importance of moisturization (which I am now a devoted believer), interesting necklines, or the cut and fit of an outfit. Some people think the topics are frivolous or a waste of time, but it is so much more than what it seems. You've taught people to take the time for themselves, to put effort into a wardrobe or expert make up application, because they are worth it and they deserve it. You've helped me realize that I am worth it, and I thank you so much. Please do keep us at least somewhat updated on your ventures, and please keep the site up so that I can at least read old posts for continued inspiration and look at adorable Monte pictures.

It's taken me a couple of days to collect myself and write a comment. I was just so upset on Friday when you made your announcement.

I'm really happy for you that you're moving on to bigger and better things, but I really hope you'll reconsider your decision. Like some people suggested, maybe write once or twice a week instead of everyday?

Oh zoinks. I jet-set for just one weekend and come back to this bittersweet news? *sigh* But, sincerely, best of luck to you and do let the world know where your essays/articles/fab writing will be published.

Also, I may just have to blog this news because without your much-discussed "101" advice, I have the feeling DC's female population may single-handedly revitalize the economy by causing a sharp spike in Ann Taylor Loft stock.

you've always been a huge inspiration to me, but this career move really clinched it. never have I known someone who went for it as passionately as you. reading through your comments should prove extremely gratifying. you're a force, Miss Hannie, and I can't wait to see what you've got up your pouf sleeve :)

I saw you on the Metro today, and girl you are STUNNING! I loved that I recognized your coat and your shoes from two different posts. I would've said 'hello' but you were pretty engrossed in your iPod and your Sidekick.

Seriously, the DC style scene took a major nosedive the day you retired. If all we have left is...well I don't want to get catty, so I won't mention names, but in general, if all we have left are the craptastic musings of wannabes who have NO TASTE whatsoever, I have a lot less confidence that DC can shake its reputation as a style graveyard.

I am heartbroken. As many others have said, please keep the site up for archive browsing, and consider posting infrequently...I know your fans have been demanding in the past when you let a day pass with nary a post other than the "Sugar Daddy" items, but REALLY, anything is better than this. Do let us know where we can find you in the future, and thank you, thank you, for reminding me to moisturize, wear heels, love my body, and that fashion is not just an indulgence. Best of luck.

Just as many others have said, I keep checking back (countless times since Black Friday) to see if you've added a tidbit of information. I've truly enjoyed your work and although I only found you a couple of months ago, I've been through your archives and love them all. For a 43 year old nurse in Texas who is the mother of 3, I am living vicariously through you and I am now better for it. I will never again go to bed unmoisturized! I feel like I'm losing part of the family! And never to see Monte again? I can't take it! I do hope that you can come back at some point and let us know what fabulous direction your life has taken, but of course we will probably all know by then because you will be famous! Sigh, all good things must come to an end...Much love and best wishes on your new adventures!

Jo I wish you nothing but the best. I will definately miss you.I just loved your site but I understand we all have to move on but I will miss you terribly. The next time I visit Traverse City you will definately be on my mind.Godspeed dear......

Oh. No. I leave the country for 10 days and come back only to find that my favorite daily read is gone? Well, add me to the list of long-time readers/first-time commenters who will miss you and who thank you for what you've done. I've gone from standard D.C. schlub to developing a reputation as "the stylish one" in the office. You taught me the power of the DvF wrap, for instance--and of the confidence I get when I know I look good. I'm wearing a showpiece neckline and mary-jane pumps today in your honor ...

Good luck with everything. I hope you're still reading the comments so you know how much you'll be missed.

blonde!? I must say I am baffled at the drastic change but am loving it. and admiring your guts for going to the extreme. and I know from Brooke's site that you indeed are the proud owner of that MJ sugar daddy dress, so congrats on that front. this must truly mean that bigger and better things are on their way. can't wait!

I still read you every day, I just click to the post you wrote a year ago to the day. This is probably the only perk of being a new reader to your site. I liked you better with brown hair but I truly admire the risk taker in you.

okay, my first and best guess was that you were knocked up. but now that I see you've bleached your hair, that can't be it. married? enlisted? CIA? reality tv? where in the hell has my favorite blogger of all time gone??

I wish I could be happier for you, I really do, but reality TV Johanna? Really? This is making me think all you really want is attention, not a real job in the industry. I hope you do well (at least make it past the first week!!) but I can't help but think this is a waste of your amazing education and wit.

Anon 9:43 - Maybe this would be true of the reward was a cash prize, but it's not. The reward is a real job in the industry (on CW's website it says "an editorial position at Elle magazine"). I would say the reality TV bit is a means to an end.

nothing you do anymore surprises me. this is just so great, johanna, I'm very very happy for you. as long as Monte approves (which I'm sure he does), your life couldn't be better right now I'm sure! please let us know when the show will air and we'll all root for our favorite blogger!

Please. We need you. PLEASE! Do you know how many French pedicures, Crocs, and beige pantsuits with white cross-trainers and socks I've seen around town lately? We're slipping out here, and we need you.

I bought my first dress from Net-A-Porter on Friday as an MA graduation gift to myself. A midnight blue Manoush deep V-neck jersey dress with an embroidered belt...on sale. My friends didn't "get" it. My mom didn't "get" it. You would SO get it...

Reality TV or not, life is about taking chances and, hell, when a once-in-lifetime opportunity comes along that can give a writer that kind of exposure, why *wouldn't* someone take it? (I mean, as long as you're not a crier...two words: bad edit.)

Johanna -- I don't imagine you a crier, so definitely looking forward to catching all the made-for-TV trials and tribulations. Elle would be retarded not to give you a writing position.

Calm and really really stunning. I always thought you were attractive in the photographs you posted on ASJINE but on film, your bone structure really jumps off the screen. You're going to be a star, Ms. J!

I guess I'm getting the point that you're not allowed to write on the blog anymore, but it's such a tease to see you change up the Sugar Daddy items everyday and not have any of your great posts! Can't you manage a compromise with the powers that be and return to us? The DC style blog scene is so dull right now.

Hey Jo, glad to hear everything is progressing well and everything worked out like you hoped last we talked! Great to "see" you through the gossip grapevine, but would rather have you back and blogging if you ever find time and freedom to do it. You'd be proud of my new green patent 4 inchers and how much better my clothes are looking since I decided to start training for a 10k. (Seriously, I'm in pants I haven't worn in 3 years.)

You really have been on my mind. Hope you're happy wherever life takes you and you'll have great news for us when you can/if you want to make it back here.

I hope Betsy at Fashion is Spinach wasn't kidding when she said she was going to have Team Johanna tees made up. My two best girlfriends and I are already planning an ANTM/Stylista viewing party every Wednesday this fall and those shirts will be mandatory to get in the door! We're all behind you in Atlanta!!

The Concept

Each day, with old man candor, I'll offer my brand of style counsel to the professional DC women who believe a serious job is a valid excuse for an ill-fitted, office inappropriate, comfort first work wardrobe. And when the mood strikes me, which is often, I'll also muse about celebrity fashion and my own fashion-related comings and goings, both of which, I'm sure, are of great interest to you.